The humble balloon, a staple of children’s birthday parties, has been declared an enemy of the environment and banned from Campbelltown Council events in the future.
The ban is part of a raft of measures included in an updated sustainable events policy, adopted at the last council meeting of the year.
Under the new policy, balloons and plastic straws will no longer be distributed or sold at council events.
Council says balloons have been recognised as one of the most harmful waste items to wildlife and can travel about 800 kilometres when released.
Foil coated balloons are not biodegradable and can remain in the environment forever while common balloons, which are made from latex, can take many years to break down.
“Events are a major part of our calendar and anything we can do to reduce any negative impact on the environment is welcome,” says Mayor George Brticevic.
“Implementing simple changes will make a real difference to an event’s environmental footprint, while also ensuring they remain fun and family focused,” he said.
“Our events should remain positive and stimulating and support the health and wellbeing of our community now and into the future.
“Our events do not have to leave an environmental impact to be remembered.’’
As part of the new policy, Campbelltown Council will also encourage the use of public transport, reduce waste and provide ethical food choice options at its events.
Vegan and ethical food options will also be considered where possible, council says.
Other initiatives include providing people attending council events with the opportunity to return reusable products, purchasing locally made products, implementing measures to reduce energy usage and providing bicycle parking and public transport options.
A review of the old policy was initiated after community feedback was received about sustainable practices at local events.
